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- Tasks: Support pupils with special educational needs and help them thrive in their learning.
- Company: Join a vibrant primary school committed to inclusivity and student success.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and 24/7 wellbeing support.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while growing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience with children and a passion for supporting their development.
- Other info: Fixed term role until July 2026 with excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 16104 - 24206 £ per year.
Salary: £16,104 actual salary (£24,206 FTE) – Hours: 28 hours per week
Working Pattern: Term time including INSET days (44.6 weeks per year)
Contract: Fixed term until 24 July 2026
Start Date: ASAP
About The Role
John Wood School & Nursery is seeking to appoint a dedicated and enthusiastic Para Professional (TA) to support pupils with special educational needs. This is an exciting opportunity to join a supportive and committed team, working closely with teaching staff to ensure pupils receive the support they need to achieve their full potential. The successful candidate will provide targeted support for a pupil with special educational needs, helping them access learning and develop both academically and socially. John Wood School & Nursery is a vibrant two-form entry primary school located in Croydon and part of Chancery Education Trust. We pride ourselves on being an inclusive and diverse school where children are at the centre of our vision and values, and where every pupil is supported to feel happy, secure and successful in their learning.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide 1:1 support for a pupil with special educational needs
- Support the class teacher in delivering inclusive learning activities
- Help pupils access the curriculum and develop confidence in their learning
- Support pupils’ emotional, social and behavioural development
- Work collaboratively with teachers and other support staff
- Contribute to a safe, positive and engaging learning environment
Key Requirements
- Experience working with children in a primary school setting
- Teaching Assistant qualification or relevant experience (desirable)
- A passion for supporting children’s learning and development
- Patient, calm and empathetic approach when working with pupils
- Ability to build positive relationships with pupils and staff
- Commitment to teamwork and professional development
- Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people
Working with Chancery Education Trust
- Excellent CPD and professional development opportunities
- A supportive and collaborative network across Trust academies
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) providing 24/7 wellbeing support
- Private Healthcare available after one year of service (renewed annually on 31 May)
- CycleShare Scheme available to all staff
How to Apply
Visits to the Academy are warmly welcomed. Please contact: Shelley Floyd – HR 020 8462 5867 HR@cetrust.com
Application Forms (Editable Versions) can be downloaded from Work With Us – John Wood School & Nursery Para Professional JD and Person Spec Application Part A Application Part B
Key Information
This role is a Para Professional (Teaching Assistant) – SEN Support with salary £16,104 (actual) (£24,206 FTE), 28 hours per week, term time including INSET (44.6 weeks). Contract fixed term until 24 July 2026. Start date ASAP. Interview date to be confirmed. Closing date 12 April 2026. Early applications are encouraged, and we may interview and appoint before the closing date.
Our Commitment
John Wood School & Nursery is committed to providing an inclusive environment that offers equality of opportunity and freedom from discrimination. We believe every pupil and member of staff should have the opportunity to fulfil their potential whatever their background, identity and circumstances. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All offers of employment are subject to an Enhanced DBS check and all vetting required under Keeping Children Safe in Education. Staff must understand their role within the wider safeguarding system, share information appropriately and take prompt action when concerns arise. By applying for this role, you consent to John Wood School & Nursery storing your information in accordance with GDPR.
IMPORTANT PLEASE READ BEFORE APPLYING: To apply, please follow the application process detailed above. This job does not have a Croydon Council online application form. The ‘Apply Now’ button below only allows you to submit a job alert, not an online application.
Para Professional (TA) - SEN Support employer: Croydon Council
Contact Detail:
Croydon Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Para Professional (TA) - SEN Support
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Before your interview, do a bit of research on John Wood School & Nursery. Familiarise yourself with their values and approach to SEN support. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Think about common interview questions for teaching assistants and rehearse your responses. Focus on your experience with children and how you've supported their learning. We want you to feel confident and ready to shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! During the interview, let your enthusiasm for supporting children with special educational needs come through. Share specific examples of how you've made a difference in a child's learning journey. This is your chance to stand out!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a nice touch that shows you’re keen and professional. Plus, it keeps you on their radar!
We think you need these skills to ace Para Professional (TA) - SEN Support
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for supporting children with special educational needs shine through. We want to see that you genuinely care about making a difference in their lives!
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have working with children, especially in a primary school setting. We love seeing how your background aligns with the role, so don’t hold back on those details!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your skills and experiences are easy to read and understand. Avoid jargon and keep it simple!
Apply Through Our Website: Remember, the best way to apply is through our website! It’s super easy, and you’ll find all the necessary forms there. Don’t forget to check everything before hitting send!
How to prepare for a job interview at Croydon Council
✨Know Your SEN Support
Make sure you understand the specific needs of pupils with special educational needs. Familiarise yourself with common strategies and approaches that can help these students thrive in a classroom setting. This will show your commitment and readiness to support them effectively.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous experience working with children, especially in a primary school environment. Highlight any relevant qualifications or training you have, and share specific examples of how you've successfully supported students in the past.
✨Demonstrate Empathy and Patience
During the interview, convey your calm and empathetic approach when working with pupils. Share anecdotes that illustrate your ability to build positive relationships and how you handle challenging situations with patience and understanding.
✨Engage with the Team Spirit
Emphasise your commitment to teamwork and collaboration. Discuss how you plan to work closely with teachers and other support staff to create an inclusive learning environment. Showing that you value professional development and are eager to learn from others will make a great impression.